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What to do about unwanted attention
In some cultures, such as southern Europe and Latin America, behavior that we might consider over-the-top machismo is considered acceptable. This may include obvious leering, catcalling, and flirtatious or suggestive remarks. The best reaction is a non-reaction: Keep walking, ignore the comments, and do not make eye contact. On the other hand, if someone touches you inappropriately make noise and yell. Safety is more important than politeness.
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Learn the right greetings
Many cultures have strict taboos against men and women touching each other, making it hard to know how to greet someone cordially. Generally, men in Muslim countries are uncomfortable shaking hands with women. If you extend yours you may be met with a blank stare or an awkwardly limp hand. In China, a handshake is an acceptable greeting, whereas a hug is not. In India and Nepal, the customary way to greet is to press your palms together in a prayer-like manner, make a slight bowing motion, and say“ Namaste.”
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Understand the predominant communication style
In most English-speaking cultures, we are fairly straightforward and our words state their intended meaning explicitly. But in places such as Latin America, Asia, and parts of the Mediterranean, meaning is also conveyed through facial expressions, body language and tone of voice. For example, in India people often wag their head from side to side while speaking. It can mean they agree with you, OR disagree. It all depends on their facial expression.
In some Asian cultures, the idea of saving face is extremely important, and communication may be more nuanced or indirect to avoid embarrassment or conflict. You may think you are being lied to, but in reality the speaker may only be trying to be polite. Some cultures have a greater tolerance for uncertainty and ambiguity than others. So in Finland, Japan, and Germany people are very punctual; in Latin America, they are not.
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